Manchester City: Fernandinho follows the General to sign extension
January has already seen Manchester City sign a number of players. Not necessarily from outside and bringing them to the club, but certainly important signings nevertheless. Sometimes, when the transfer windows open, talk turns to getting in fresh faces. It is easy to forget the players you already have on your books.
Along with getting in those new faces, you also need to make sure you reward the players who are already wearing the shirt. The players whose blood, sweat and tears have propelled you to such a lofty perch in the worlds most competitive league.
Recently, Nicolas Otamendi, was rewarded with just such a deal. Extending his stay to 2022. Now, the latest player to be rewarded with a contract extension is our very own silent enforcer, Fernandinho.
It is the continuation of the Manchester City policy of rewarding the best players. David Silva has already signed an extension, with Raheem Sterling, Leroy Sane and Gabriel Jesus all in line to be offered improved deals later in the year.
It is part of the same, internal policy, which saw City pass up on Alexis Sanchez after months of pursuit. The wages, allegedly demanded from the Chilean, would have put him directly to the top of the City wage tree. Being above Kevin DeBruyne, Sergio Aguero and David Silva would not have gone down well.
As a key player for Pep, and noticeable when not there, it wasn’t a surprise when Fernandinho signed. Joining the Blues in 2013 from Shakhtar Donetsk the Brazilian has scored nineteen goals in a little over 200 appearances. When asked about his new deal Fernie said this:
"This is a Club with a fantastic future and I want to be a part of it for as long as possible,With Pep in charge, I feel sure we can win significant silverware and, importantly, we will try to do it playing attractive, attacking football. It’s a pleasure to be a part of this Club and I look forward to seeing what the next few years bring."
While Fernandinho is key to Manchester City, at 32, I am sure City will still be actively looking for a replacement. Talk was that another Brazilian from the same club would follow in Fernandinho’s path. While that would be a great signing, keeping Fernandinho will be beneficial on numerous levels.
Next: Nico: General Signs Extension
Firstly, his experience of moving from Brazil to Manchester, via the Ukraine could help Fred settle. With Fred, being only 24 years old, it allows us to ease him into the role. With the intensity demanded of his role, eventually Fernandinho will have to play less games.
Playing less games could extend his career and, combined with his professionalism and work ethic, may result in a smooth handing over of the midfield reigns.